Formal Purchase Methods for Community Nutrition Programs

1 00:00:03,639 --> 00:00:06,259 Welcome to Formal Purchase Methods for Community Nutrition Programs Webinar. 2 00:00:06,259 --> 00:00:11,150 This Webinar is for agencies participating in the Child and Adult Care Food Program-or 3 00:00:11,150 --> 00:00:15,320 CACFP-and the Summer Food Service Program-or SFSP. 4 00:00:15,320 --> 00:00:18,740 I am Laurie Pennings. 5 00:00:18,740 --> 00:00:19,890 And I'm Courtney Hardoin. 6 00:00:19,890 --> 00:00:23,160 We are both Nutritionists in the Education and Nutrition Policy Unit at the Nutrition 7 00:00:23,160 --> 00:00:25,850 Services Division or NSD. 8 00:00:25,850 --> 00:00:33,350 The purpose of this Webinar is to review the requirements for the formal purchase methods; 9 00:00:33,350 --> 00:00:39,840 discuss the differences between an Invitation for Bid, which we will refer to as an IFB 10 00:00:39,840 --> 00:00:45,900 or bid; and a Request for Proposal, which we will refer to as an RFP or proposal; and 11 00:00:45,900 --> 00:00:53,100 to review the components to include in a formal solicitation, including the scoring criteria for and RFP. 12 00:00:54,290 --> 00:01:02,200 We developed this Webinar for nonprofit and for profit agencies, tribal agencies and government agencies. 13 00:01:04,19 --> 00:01:09,140 Because the majority of agencies participating in the CACFP are not required to adhere to 14 00:01:09,140 --> 00:01:14,170 state laws that pertain to school districts, this Webinar will not cover those California 15 00:01:14,170 --> 00:01:15,430 State laws. 16 00:01:15,430 --> 00:01:20,570 For more information regarding procurement requirements for school districts, visit the 17 00:01:20,570 --> 00:01:25,939 Procurement in Child Nutrition Programs Web page at the Web address listed on this slide. 18 00:01:25,939 --> 00:01:31,820 Agencies must follow the formal procurement process when the dollar amount of a purchase 19 00:01:31,820 --> 00:01:32,450 exceeds the small purchase threshold. 20 00:01:32,450 --> 00:01:36,80 So, what is the dollar amount for the small purchase threshold? 21 00:01:36,80 --> 00:01:41,600 Courtney, the small purchase threshold depends on the type of agency making the purchase. 22 00:01:41,600 --> 00:01:45,451 There are three main thresholds: the federal threshold, the state threshold, and there 23 00:01:45,451 --> 00:01:47,369 may also be local thresholds. 24 00:01:47,369 --> 00:01:52,80 Agencies must identify which threshold pertains to their agency. 25 00:01:52,80 --> 00:01:55,950 Let's review each one separately. 26 00:01:55,950 --> 00:02:00,359 The current federal small purchase threshold is $150,000. 27 00:02:00,359 --> 00:02:07,829 This means that agencies must follow the formal purchase procedures if a single purchase transaction 28 00:02:07,829 --> 00:02:09,869 exceeds this amount. 29 00:02:09,869 --> 00:02:14,739 The federal small purchase threshold pertains to private, nonprofit and for-profit agencies, 30 00:02:14,739 --> 00:02:16,820 and some public agencies. 31 00:02:16,820 --> 00:02:18,0 This dollar amount may change. 32 00:02:18,0 --> 00:02:24,540 Agencies should check the Federal Acquisition Regulation, Part 2, under the definition of 33 00:02:24,540 --> 00:02:29,610 Simplified Acquisition Threshold at the Web address listed on this slide if they want 34 00:02:29,610 --> 00:02:33,790 to be certain of the current dollar amount for the small purchase threshold. 35 00:02:33,790 --> 00:02:41,540 School districts and county offices of education must comply with the CDE small purchase threshold. 36 00:02:41,540 --> 00:02:44,700 This threshold changes each calendar year based upon inflation. 37 00:02:44,700 --> 00:02:50,760 In January 2017, it was set at $88,300. 38 00:02:50,760 --> 00:02:56,900 After January 1, 2018, agencies that must adhere to the CDE small purchase threshold 39 00:02:56,900 --> 00:02:58,490 should check the Web link on this slide for the current threshold. 40 00:03:00,0 --> 00:03:05,300 Some agencies must comply with local small purchase thresholds that are set by either 41 00:03:05,300 --> 00:03:08,100 local governments or by their own agency. 42 00:03:08,100 --> 00:03:16,320 Agencies must always use the most restrictive applicable small purchase threshold. 43 00:03:16,320 --> 00:03:21,980 Before we review the different types of formal solicitations, let's review three critical 44 00:03:21,980 --> 00:03:29,971 procurement principles. One, free and open competition; 2 fairness and integrity; and 45 00:03:29,971 --> 00:03:32,150 3 responsive and responsible vendors. 46 00:03:32,150 --> 00:03:37,840 We will cover each of these principles separately. 47 00:03:37,840 --> 00:03:42,849 Free and open competition is important because it secures the best price for the best quality 48 00:03:42,849 --> 00:03:44,650 products or services. 49 00:03:44,650 --> 00:03:50,820 It allows companies to differentiate prices, services, and innovation. 50 00:03:50,820 --> 00:03:53,599 Free and open competition ensures a level playing field. 51 00:03:53,599 --> 00:03:59,970 It gives the same opportunity for all vendors to compete. 52 00:03:59,970 --> 00:04:05,600 It is important that procurement procedures do not unjustifiably restrict or eliminate competition. 53 00:04:05,659 --> 00:04:09,470 Courtney, can you give examples of procedures that might restrict competition? 54 00:04:09,470 --> 00:04:10,470 Yes. 55 00:04:10,470 --> 00:04:14,420 Agencies must not: - Place unreasonable requirements on vendors 56 00:04:14,420 --> 00:04:16,930 in order to qualify. 57 00:04:16,930 --> 00:04:22,900 For example, requiring vendors to use only specific vehicles as part of their delivery fleet. 58 00:04:22,950 --> 00:04:25,30 That would be unreasonably restrictive. 59 00:04:25,30 --> 00:04:27,0 - Have organizational conflicts of interest. 60 00:04:27,0 --> 00:04:34,630 This is defined by awarding a contract to an affiliate or subsidiary of the organization. 61 00:04:34,630 --> 00:04:38,100 - Or have unnecessary bonding requirements or require that a vendor have an excessive 62 00:04:38,100 --> 00:04:40,890 number of years in business. 63 00:04:40,890 --> 00:04:44,700 These procedures could all restrict competition. 64 00:04:44,900 --> 00:04:48,210 The following practices promote fairness and integrity: 65 00:04:48,210 --> 00:04:52,970 1) Specifications are clearly written and not too restrictive 66 00:04:52,970 --> 00:04:57,510 2) Solicitations are publicized to the widest possible audience 67 00:04:57,510 --> 00:05:01,410 3) Evaluation criteria are clear and not too restrictive 68 00:05:01,410 --> 00:05:09,830 4) An adequate amount of time is given for vendors to prepare their bids or proposals 69 00:05:09,830 --> 00:05:16,860 5) The bid opening and evaluations are transparent 6) The entire process is documented, and 70 00:05:16,860 --> 00:05:21,200 7) Goods identified in the solicitation are procured 71 00:05:21,200 --> 00:05:26,550 What's meant by goods identified in the solicitation are procured? 72 00:05:26,550 --> 00:05:31,920 Let's say for example that an agency's solicitation estimated they planned to purchase 200 meals 73 00:05:31,920 --> 00:05:36,0 per day but only requested 50 meals per day after the contract was awarded. 74 00:05:36,0 --> 00:05:41,120 This would not be fair to the vendor who gave a quote based upon 200 meals per day. 75 00:05:41,120 --> 00:05:46,470 Agencies should demonstrate integrity by their honest, ethical and sincere business transactions 76 00:05:46,470 --> 00:05:47,470 with vendors. 77 00:05:47,470 --> 00:05:52,990 Of course, the expectation is that vendors also demonstrate fairness and integrity in 78 00:05:52,990 --> 00:05:55,440 their transactions with agencies. 79 00:05:55,440 --> 00:06:02,880 It is important to note that federal regulations do not allow vendors to develop or draft specifications, 80 00:06:02,880 --> 00:06:07,320 requirements, statements of work, IFBs or RFPs for the agency. 81 00:06:07,320 --> 00:06:12,480 Agencies may ask vendors for their specifications on specific products, but the agency must 82 00:06:12,480 --> 00:06:19,960 determine the specifications to include in their solicitation. 83 00:06:19,960 --> 00:06:23,460 The third principle falls under the category of responsive and responsible vendors. 84 00:06:23,460 --> 00:06:29,570 This means awards should only be made to vendors who are both responsive and responsible. 85 00:06:29,570 --> 00:06:34,400 Responsive means that the vendor conforms to all material terms and conditions of the solicitation. 86 00:06:35,960 --> 00:06:40,740 For example, if an agency requires that a vendor deliver meals daily at noon and the 87 00:06:40,740 --> 00:06:45,150 vendor can only deliver meals at 11 a.m., the vendor would not be able to meet the minimum 88 00:06:45,150 --> 00:06:48,610 requirement and would therefore be considered unresponsive. 89 00:06:48,610 --> 00:06:53,740 An agency should reject their bid or proposal if they cannot meet the terms and conditions 90 00:06:53,740 --> 00:06:54,80 of the solicitation. 91 00:06:54,80 --> 00:06:57,50 Courtney, what's meant by responsible? 92 00:06:57,50 --> 00:07:02,360 Responsible vendors are capable of successfully performing under the terms and conditions 93 00:07:02,360 --> 00:07:03,360 of the contract. 94 00:07:03,360 --> 00:07:10,600 Agencies should consider developing criteria which must be met in order to be considered responsible. 95 00:07:10,660 --> 00:07:11,240 Can you give some examples? 96 00:07:11,240 --> 00:07:16,460 Sure. An agency could ask whether the vendor has had any contracts terminated in the past ten 97 00:07:16,460 --> 00:07:20,990 years and if so, to explain the circumstances. 98 00:07:20,990 --> 00:07:25,320 They could also request references from like agencies, or they could request in the solicitation 99 00:07:25,320 --> 00:07:30,290 that the vendor submit documents to show they are financially viable or operating in the black. 100 00:07:32,660 --> 00:07:37,110 If an agency determines that a vendor is not responsive or responsible, the reasons must 101 00:07:37,110 --> 00:07:38,110 be documented. 102 00:07:38,110 --> 00:07:42,370 It's important in the event of an appeal that agencies have sound criteria and were transparent 103 00:07:42,370 --> 00:07:44,680 in the solicitation. 104 00:07:44,680 --> 00:07:50,150 It is important that agencies keep in mind that they may not disclose confidential information, 105 00:07:50,150 --> 00:07:56,210 such as scores or pricing in a Request for Proposal before an award is made. 106 00:07:56,210 --> 00:08:00,150 Sealed bids should be opened publicly at the time and date advertised. 107 00:08:00,150 --> 00:08:06,100 After the bid opening, or after a Request for Proposal is awarded, pricing is public information. 108 00:08:07,960 --> 00:08:13,650 Now that we've covered the basic principles of good procurement, let's review the two 109 00:08:13,650 --> 00:08:14,900 formal purchase methods. 110 00:08:14,900 --> 00:08:19,810 Agencies must select one of these two methods when their purchase transactions or their 111 00:08:19,810 --> 00:08:22,940 contracts exceed the small purchase threshold. 112 00:08:22,940 --> 00:08:28,400 The first method is called the IFB and the second is the RFP. 113 00:08:28,400 --> 00:08:34,400 Listed on this slide are the required steps for both formal procurement methods, IFB and RFP. 114 00:08:34,419 --> 00:08:39,550 We will go into detail on each of these steps later in the Webinar. 115 00:08:39,550 --> 00:08:41,260 Step 1: Develop the solicitation. 116 00:08:41,260 --> 00:08:45,700 We will cover the components to include in the solicitation shortly. 117 00:08:45,700 --> 00:08:51,30 Step 2: Publicly advertise the solicitation in a public, widespread publication such as 118 00:08:51,30 --> 00:08:57,160 the legal notice section of a generally circulated newspaper or an appropriate trade journal. 119 00:08:57,160 --> 00:09:01,400 In addition, agencies may post the solicitation on their Web page. 120 00:09:01,400 --> 00:09:06,320 Not all vendors would know to look on an agency's Web page for a solicitation so it must still 121 00:09:06,320 --> 00:09:09,620 be posted in a widespread publication. 122 00:09:09,620 --> 00:09:15,200 To save money, agencies can post reference to the RFP or IFB in a newspaper and refer 123 00:09:15,200 --> 00:09:18,130 vendors to their Web page for more details. 124 00:09:18,130 --> 00:09:24,940 In addition to public posting, as a best practice, many agencies maintain a list of vendors and 125 00:09:24,940 --> 00:09:27,80 notify them directly when solicitations are advertised. 126 00:09:27,80 --> 00:09:33,480 Step 3: Evaluate bids using the criteria established in the solicitation. 127 00:09:33,480 --> 00:09:38,190 Step 4: Award the contract to the responsive and responsible bidder. 128 00:09:38,190 --> 00:09:43,280 Step 5: Manage the contract to ensure that the vendor is complying with the terms and 129 00:09:43,280 --> 00:09:49,200 conditions of the contract. This is an important, but often overlooked step 130 00:09:49,480 --> 00:09:54,920 Laurie, what components should be included in an RFP? 131 00:09:54,920 --> 00:10:01,710 The components of an IFB or RFP may have different names and be ordered differently, but in general, 132 00:10:01,710 --> 00:10:04,750 the information in each of these components should be included. 133 00:10:04,750 --> 00:10:10,0 It's a good idea to have a cover page that states whether the solicitation is an RFP or an IFB. 134 00:10:10,380 --> 00:10:15,250 Next, agencies should include an introduction which documents the name of the agency, a 135 00:10:15,250 --> 00:10:21,270 brief description of what is being procured, and an explanation of why the agency is conducting 136 00:10:21,270 --> 00:10:22,270 the procurement. 137 00:10:22,270 --> 00:10:25,250 It's best to use clear, simple and concise language. 138 00:10:25,250 --> 00:10:30,130 The solicitation must include a timeline or schedule of events which should clearly state 139 00:10:30,130 --> 00:10:38,700 when bids or proposals are due, when a contract will be awarded and note any pre‐solicitation meetings. 140 00:10:38,970 --> 00:10:42,430 Presolicitation meetings are optional but provide an opportunity for all interested 141 00:10:42,430 --> 00:10:49,100 vendors to come talk in person to the agency about the solicitation and obtain clarification if needed. 142 00:10:50,700 --> 00:10:53,190 The solicitation should include general instructions for the respondents. 143 00:10:53,190 --> 00:10:58,860 These instructions outline the rules for bid or proposal submissions. 144 00:10:58,860 --> 00:11:02,250 The solicitation should state where and how to submit the bid or proposal. 145 00:11:02,250 --> 00:11:07,750 If an agency wants an option to negotiate the final terms and conditions of submitted 146 00:11:07,750 --> 00:11:16,0 proposals with the top scoring vendors prior to the award, this should be clearly stated in the RFP. 147 00:11:16,280 --> 00:11:21,610 The solicitation should describe the goods and services you are requesting and should 148 00:11:21,610 --> 00:11:26,250 clearly outline all requirements which the potential vendors must fulfill including completion 149 00:11:26,250 --> 00:11:33,550 of specific forms, signatures on documents, and/or answers to specific questions. 150 00:11:33,550 --> 00:11:36,160 The specific terms and conditions of the contract should be clear as well. 151 00:11:36,160 --> 00:11:40,650 If there are minimum requirements, these should be stated too. 152 00:11:40,650 --> 00:11:47,900 The regulations require that agencies identify all factors to be used in evaluating IFB or RFP proposals. 153 00:11:47,980 --> 00:11:54,660 In the case of an RFP, the solicitation should clearly show the relative importance of each 154 00:11:54,660 --> 00:11:55,320 evaluation criteria to be scored. 155 00:11:55,320 --> 00:12:03,400 For example, an RFP needs to show the number of points allocated for each evaluation criteria 156 00:12:03,400 --> 00:12:09,510 so that a vendor will understand the relative importance of each scored criteria. 157 00:12:09,510 --> 00:12:14,670 We will review examples of scoring criteria for RFPs later in the Webinar. 158 00:12:14,670 --> 00:12:20,150 To make it easy to compare prices among vendors, agencies should include a standard form for 159 00:12:20,150 --> 00:12:22,870 vendors to fill in the blanks. 160 00:12:22,870 --> 00:12:25,280 This way agencies are comparing apples to apples. 161 00:12:25,280 --> 00:12:32,0 For a one-year vended meal bid or proposal, agencies should request vendors to identify 162 00:12:32,0 --> 00:12:37,440 the individual price per meal and/or snack which would then be multiplied by the number 163 00:12:37,440 --> 00:12:41,560 of meals and snacks estimated annually. 164 00:12:41,560 --> 00:12:46,150 The total cost for all meals and snacks delivered for the year would be the contract amount. 165 00:12:46,150 --> 00:12:51,520 Delivery fees and taxes should be included in the cost of meals. 166 00:12:51,520 --> 00:12:55,400 Courtney, when would an agency use an IFB and when would they use an RFP? 167 00:12:55,400 --> 00:13:01,150 An IFB is used when there is no substantial difference among the products or services 168 00:13:01,150 --> 00:13:07,100 that meet specifications so that the only difference among responsive bids is price. 169 00:13:07,100 --> 00:13:12,840 An RFP is used when the product or service varies from one vendor to another. 170 00:13:12,840 --> 00:13:19,750 In an RFP, price is only one of the criteria that is needed for evaluating proposals. 171 00:13:19,750 --> 00:13:25,670 For example, when an IFB is used for vended meals, the responsible vendor with the lowest 172 00:13:25,670 --> 00:13:29,570 price that meets the specifications wins the award. 173 00:13:29,570 --> 00:13:33,290 If an agency wants to evaluate the quality of menus submitted by vendors, they can issue 174 00:13:33,290 --> 00:13:38,810 an RFP and allocate points to each vendor for their menus. 175 00:13:38,810 --> 00:13:44,0 However, the agency should be clear in the solicitation as to what they desire in the menu. 176 00:13:44,89 --> 00:13:48,40 Only RFPs allow agencies to score other criteria besides price. 177 00:13:48,40 --> 00:13:54,610 Price must be given the highest weight in the scoring for evaluation, but price is only 178 00:13:54,610 --> 00:13:58,750 one of the criteria rated. 179 00:13:58,750 --> 00:14:04,130 Another difference between an IFB and an RFP is that in the IFB process, the bids are opened 180 00:14:04,130 --> 00:14:07,400 publicly at a predetermined time and date. 181 00:14:07,400 --> 00:14:11,490 All vendors are invited to attend the bid opening but they are not required to attend. 182 00:14:11,490 --> 00:14:16,430 In an IFB, there is no negotiation of price or terms. 183 00:14:16,430 --> 00:14:21,210 The vendor with the lowest priced bid that meets the specifications and is considered 184 00:14:21,210 --> 00:14:25,380 responsive and responsible will be awarded the contract. 185 00:14:25,380 --> 00:14:33,810 In an RFP, negotiation of both price and other criteria can take place prior to the award. 186 00:14:33,810 --> 00:14:37,940 The IFB process will always result in a fixed-price contract. 187 00:14:37,940 --> 00:14:43,630 The RFP process will always result in either a fixed-price contract or a cost-reimbursement 188 00:14:43,630 --> 00:14:44,410 type contract. 189 00:14:44,410 --> 00:14:51,470 Please note that cost reimbursement type contracts are not allowable in the SFSP and cost plus 190 00:14:51,470 --> 00:15:02,400 percentage contracts are not allowable from either an RFP or an IFB for both the CACFP and the SFSP. 191 00:15:02,420 --> 00:15:11,400 SFSP regulations currently require vendors that submit a bid over $150,000 to submit a bid bond. 192 00:15:11,430 --> 00:15:17,839 A bid bond serves to protect the agency as guarantee to the agency that the vendor will 193 00:15:17,839 --> 00:15:20,0 execute the contract as awarded. 194 00:15:20,0 --> 00:15:25,560 The bid bond is subject to full or partial forfeiture if the awarded contractor fails 195 00:15:25,560 --> 00:15:30,560 to execute the contract or provide the required performance bonds. 196 00:15:30,560 --> 00:15:35,170 A performance bond is required when a contract over $150,000 is awarded. 197 00:15:35,170 --> 00:15:42,250 A performance bond is a surety bond issued by an insurance company or a bank to guarantee 198 00:15:42,250 --> 00:15:46,20 satisfactory completion of a contract. 199 00:15:46,20 --> 00:15:54,580 CACFP regulations do not require vendors to obtain bid or performance bonds. 200 00:15:54,580 --> 00:15:58,770 A bid opening is the stage in the bidding process where sealed bids are publically opened 201 00:15:58,770 --> 00:16:00,70 and examined by the agency. 202 00:16:00,70 --> 00:16:08,560 Currently, SFSP regulations require the presence of a State agency representative at SFSP bid 203 00:16:08,560 --> 00:16:14,910 openings when agencies are expected to receive over $150,000 in Program payments. 204 00:16:14,910 --> 00:16:20,800 The state representative may attend either in person or electronically, such as a WebEx Meeting 205 00:16:20,800 --> 00:16:27,860 SFSP agencies must notify the CDE a minimum of 14 days in advance of the time and place 206 00:16:27,860 --> 00:16:31,10 of the bid opening as CDE staff are required to attend. 207 00:16:31,10 --> 00:16:39,50 Currently, SFSP regulations require agencies to submit all bids totaling over $150,000 208 00:16:39,50 --> 00:16:45,410 to the CDE for approval before the agency can award a contract. 209 00:16:45,410 --> 00:16:51,900 The NSD requests agencies submit bid documents ten business days in advance of the proposed 210 00:16:51,900 --> 00:16:53,100 award date to their program specialist. 211 00:16:53,100 --> 00:16:59,399 If an agency desires to award a bid to a vendor that did not submit the lowest bid, they must 212 00:16:59,399 --> 00:17:07,250 include justification when submitting their bid documents to the CDE for approval. 213 00:17:07,250 --> 00:17:12,300 Courtney mentioned earlier that RFPs will have scoring criteria. This is unique to the RFP. 214 00:17:13,199 --> 00:17:19,829 The regulations require that the solicitation identify all evaluation criteria and their 215 00:17:19,829 --> 00:17:20,160 relative importance. 216 00:17:20,160 --> 00:17:26,890 Agencies can assign a point value, percentage, or establish some sort of scoring system for 217 00:17:26,890 --> 00:17:28,670 each factor they want to evaluate. 218 00:17:28,670 --> 00:17:32,980 There is no prescribed maximum evaluation points. 219 00:17:32,980 --> 00:17:39,100 While cost must be the highest weighted factor, it does not need to total more than half the points. 220 00:17:39,190 --> 00:17:43,780 We will review an example of scoring criteria soon. 221 00:17:43,780 --> 00:17:48,300 What about taste testing. How would that work in an RFP? 222 00:17:48,420 --> 00:17:55,860 Agencies can require vendors to provide sample menu items for children or adults to taste 223 00:17:55,860 --> 00:17:56,30 to determine acceptability. 224 00:17:56,30 --> 00:18:00,250 The results of the taste test would lead to a score. 225 00:18:00,250 --> 00:18:07,630 If taste testing is included as a scored criteria, the RFP needs to include sufficient detail 226 00:18:07,630 --> 00:18:12,300 to ensure vendors know what to bring where and the name and phone number of a contact person. 227 00:18:12,340 --> 00:18:17,480 The agency should also include in the solicitation the process the agency will use to evaluate 228 00:18:17,480 --> 00:18:19,790 the menu items. 229 00:18:19,790 --> 00:18:27,200 For example, children may be asked to circle either a face with a smile or a frown after tasting an item. 230 00:18:27,460 --> 00:18:32,30 Can an agency conduct taste testing with an IFB? 231 00:18:32,30 --> 00:18:38,890 Yes, The agency could state in its minimum requirements, that vendors must meet a specific 232 00:18:38,890 --> 00:18:43,580 threshold to pass a taste test or their bid will not be considered. 233 00:18:43,580 --> 00:18:47,170 For example, the solicitation could state that the taste test will be held four weeks 234 00:18:47,170 --> 00:18:49,720 before the bid opening. 235 00:18:49,720 --> 00:18:54,650 Those vendors that do not pass the taste test would be notified that they did not meet the 236 00:18:54,650 --> 00:18:57,120 minimum requirements to be considered for an award. 237 00:18:57,120 --> 00:19:03,240 For example, an agency could say that 85 percent of children tasting the menu items must circle 238 00:19:03,240 --> 00:19:06,90 a face with a smile in order to pass. 239 00:19:06,90 --> 00:19:11,650 In this context, the vendor would either pass or fail the taste test. 240 00:19:11,650 --> 00:19:15,410 Rather than choosing a vendor based on scoring criteria, the vendors that do not pass the 241 00:19:15,410 --> 00:19:20,880 taste test would not move forward and be considered for an award. 242 00:19:20,880 --> 00:19:25,100 The award would be made to the vendor who passed the minimum requirements, who was responsive 243 00:19:25,100 --> 00:19:28,210 and responsible, and had the lowest price. 244 00:19:28,210 --> 00:19:35,20 Here is an example of scoring criteria that might be used in an RFP. 245 00:19:35,20 --> 00:19:39,50 In this example, the menu is worth 25 points. 246 00:19:39,50 --> 00:19:44,40 In the solicitation, it should be clear what the agency desires in a menu. 247 00:19:44,40 --> 00:19:48,270 In addition to meeting the meal pattern, does the agency desire whole grains, fresh fruits 248 00:19:48,270 --> 00:19:54,840 and vegetables, hot menu items, culturally appropriate for the population of children 249 00:19:54,840 --> 00:19:55,309 at the preschool? 250 00:19:55,309 --> 00:20:00,920 Keep in mind that if culturally appropriate menu items are used for scoring criteria, 251 00:20:00,920 --> 00:20:05,670 the solicitation should include a description of what the agency means by culturally appropriate. 252 00:20:05,670 --> 00:20:10,290 In this example, the results of the taste test will yield a score of up to 20 points. 253 00:20:10,290 --> 00:20:16,580 Before the taste test is conducted, agencies should determine how they will develop scores 254 00:20:16,580 --> 00:20:19,240 based on the response of the children and/or adults. 255 00:20:19,240 --> 00:20:26,700 This example shows that they will give up to 20 points for the experience of the agency and references. 256 00:20:26,790 --> 00:20:31,850 Again, agencies must determine prior to the solicitation, how experience and references 257 00:20:31,850 --> 00:20:32,430 will be scored. 258 00:20:32,430 --> 00:20:36,70 The last item in this example to be scored is cost. 259 00:20:36,70 --> 00:20:42,799 Agencies will need to compare the costs of all proposals in order to determine points. 260 00:20:42,799 --> 00:20:46,750 One way to allocate points for cost is to give the vendor with the lowest price the 261 00:20:46,750 --> 00:20:47,790 full amount of points. 262 00:20:47,790 --> 00:20:50,220 In this example, they would receive 35 points. 263 00:20:50,220 --> 00:20:55,400 The vendors should be scored in comparison to the lowest price vendor. 264 00:20:55,400 --> 00:21:04,600 For example, let's say that vendor A's proposal totals $160,000 and vendor B's proposal is $170,000. 265 00:21:04,670 --> 00:21:10,840 vendor B's proposal is 6 percent higher than vendor A's proposal; therefore, it might make 266 00:21:10,840 --> 00:21:17,930 sense to give them 6 percent less points which would be 32.9 or rounded up to 33 points. 267 00:21:17,930 --> 00:21:24,770 If vendor C's proposal was $180,000 this is 11 percent higher; therefore, the vendor might 268 00:21:24,770 --> 00:21:29,240 be given 30.8 points or rounded up to 31 points. 269 00:21:29,240 --> 00:21:35,690 Agencies must clearly identify all evaluation criteria and their relative importance. 270 00:21:35,690 --> 00:21:37,620 Cost must be the highest weighted factor. 271 00:21:37,620 --> 00:21:43,70 Other than that, there are no regulations for determining which criteria to be scored 272 00:21:43,70 --> 00:21:46,60 or the scoring method. 273 00:21:46,60 --> 00:21:49,260 Laurie, I'm hearing a lot about purchasing and serving local foods lately. 274 00:21:49,260 --> 00:21:56,100 What foods are considered local foods and how can local foods be considered in either an IFB or an RFP? 275 00:21:56,490 --> 00:21:58,120 Those are great questions. 276 00:21:58,120 --> 00:22:03,840 Agencies should develop their own definition of what local means to them based upon the 277 00:22:03,840 --> 00:22:07,820 abundance or lack of abundance of farms and producers in their area. 278 00:22:07,820 --> 00:22:12,400 In addition, different food items could have their own definition of local as well. 279 00:22:12,400 --> 00:22:18,690 For example, avocados are typically grown in southern California, therefore an agency 280 00:22:18,690 --> 00:22:23,49 in northern California may consider avocados grown within the State to be local. 281 00:22:23,49 --> 00:22:26,500 Let's say that same agency has several ranches in their county. 282 00:22:26,500 --> 00:22:29,390 They may consider local beef to be within their county. 283 00:22:29,390 --> 00:22:36,90 Some agencies consider the definition of local to be within a certain radius of their center. 284 00:22:36,90 --> 00:22:42,400 It's up to agencies to define what local means to them. 285 00:22:42,400 --> 00:22:48,720 Can agencies require vendors to purchase local foods in their menus? 286 00:22:48,720 --> 00:22:53,990 Agencies may not include a specification that requires food to be locally grown or produced 287 00:22:53,990 --> 00:22:59,670 within a specific radius because it is seen as limiting competition. 288 00:22:59,670 --> 00:23:05,960 Agencies may however, give a geographic preference for unprocessed agricultural products, both 289 00:23:05,960 --> 00:23:08,530 locally grown and raised. 290 00:23:08,530 --> 00:23:15,60 What food handling methods are allowed for an agricultural product to be considered unprocessed? 291 00:23:15,60 --> 00:23:19,950 After handling, the products must retain their inherent character. 292 00:23:19,950 --> 00:23:24,880 All of the food handling and preservation techniques listed on this slide are not considered 293 00:23:24,880 --> 00:23:29,519 to change a product's inherent character and thus are allowable. 294 00:23:29,519 --> 00:23:31,929 - Washing - Refrigerating or freezing 295 00:23:31,929 --> 00:23:35,0 - Peeling, slicing, dicing, cutting - Chopping, shucking, grinding 296 00:23:35,0 --> 00:23:39,300 - Forming ground products into patties without additives or fillers 297 00:23:39,300 --> 00:23:42,320 - Drying or dehydration - Packaging 298 00:23:42,320 --> 00:23:48,179 - Vacuum packing and bagging - Adding ascorbic acid or other preservatives 299 00:23:48,179 --> 00:23:52,80 to prevent oxidation - Butchering livestock and poultry 300 00:23:52,80 --> 00:23:57,669 - Cleaning fish - Pasteurizing milk 301 00:23:57,669 --> 00:24:05,110 Heating and canning, however, are not allowed under the geographic preference option. 302 00:24:05,110 --> 00:24:10,850 Now I understand which foods can be included in the geographic preference option. 303 00:24:10,850 --> 00:24:16,740 How would an agency give a geographic preference in either an IFB or an RFP? 304 00:24:16,740 --> 00:24:19,600 Here are the steps 1) Define local. 305 00:24:19,600 --> 00:24:24,650 2) Determine what type of procurement method to use, either an IFB or an RFP. 306 00:24:24,650 --> 00:24:27,990 3) Decide how much preference local products will receive. 307 00:24:27,990 --> 00:24:33,919 4) Ensure the solicitation is clear how the preference will be applied. 308 00:24:33,919 --> 00:24:39,310 Here are two examples for including geographic preference on this slide. 309 00:24:39,310 --> 00:24:45,610 The criteria states ". . .each month a different locally grown fruit or vegetable is highlighted 310 00:24:45,610 --> 00:24:47,20 and repeated in different forms on the menu." 311 00:24:47,20 --> 00:24:51,940 If a vendor can comply with this criteria, they would get five points. 312 00:24:51,940 --> 00:24:58,500 This is a great idea not only for serving local foods but for educating children about local foods. 313 00:24:58,500 --> 00:25:03,930 The second criteria is that at least 50 percent of produce on the menu is locally grown. 314 00:25:03,930 --> 00:25:09,340 The term local is allowed to be included in the scoring criteria because it is not a requirement. 315 00:25:09,340 --> 00:25:14,950 The agency is giving a preference for locally grown produce. 316 00:25:14,950 --> 00:25:21,100 Here is another example of how an agency can use the geographic preference option when 317 00:25:21,100 --> 00:25:23,730 scoring an RFP. 318 00:25:23,730 --> 00:25:28,190 A vendor could receive 20 points if 76 to 100 percent of the produce was locally grown, 319 00:25:28,190 --> 00:25:38,200 15 points if 51 to 75 percent is local, 10 points for 26 to 50 percent, and 5 points for 0 to 25 percent. 320 00:25:38,420 --> 00:25:45,41 Remember, these additional points must be clearly identified in the solicitation. 321 00:25:45,41 --> 00:25:49,169 The geographic preference option can also be used when following the IFB process. 322 00:25:49,169 --> 00:25:57,770 Because the IFB awards are based upon price, and not points, agencies may reduce the bid 323 00:25:57,770 --> 00:26:02,10 price if the geographic preference option can be met by the vendor. 324 00:26:02,10 --> 00:26:07,260 The amount a bid is reduced for meeting the geographic preference option would be determined 325 00:26:07,260 --> 00:26:09,580 by the agency. 326 00:26:09,580 --> 00:26:11,210 Here's an example. 327 00:26:11,210 --> 00:26:16,470 In this solicitation, the agency clearly stated that thirty cents will be subtracted from 328 00:26:16,470 --> 00:26:21,310 the bid price for vendors that meet the geographic preference option. 329 00:26:21,310 --> 00:26:26,120 The agency provided a clear definition of local and clearly stated the percentage of 330 00:26:26,120 --> 00:26:30,200 produce in the menu that would need to be met to get this price reduction. 331 00:26:30,200 --> 00:26:35,20 In this scenario, three vendors submitted bids. 332 00:26:35,20 --> 00:26:40,570 Only Vendor A stated they were able to meet the criteria for the price reduction. 333 00:26:40,570 --> 00:26:48,20 Even though Vendor A submitted the highest bid, $3.35, their bid was reduced by 30 cents 334 00:26:48,20 --> 00:26:51,490 making them the vendor with the lowest price. 335 00:26:51,490 --> 00:26:54,160 Vendor A would be awarded the contract. 336 00:26:54,160 --> 00:27:00,540 Keep in mind, the amount paid to Vendor A for meals would be $3.35. 337 00:27:00,540 --> 00:27:05,809 The reduction in price was only to give them an advantage for using local foods. 338 00:27:05,809 --> 00:27:11,530 Agencies should be aware that obtaining local foods may cost more when using the geographic 339 00:27:11,530 --> 00:27:13,540 preference option. 340 00:27:13,540 --> 00:27:16,800 The price reduction should be carefully considered. 341 00:27:16,800 --> 00:27:22,930 Courtney, now that we've covered how to use the geographic preference option, let's discuss 342 00:27:22,930 --> 00:27:27,960 what agencies should do if they only receive one response to their solicitation. 343 00:27:27,960 --> 00:27:29,240 Can they award a contract to that vendor? 344 00:27:29,240 --> 00:27:35,679 That's a good question Laurie and sometimes agencies do receive only one response. 345 00:27:35,679 --> 00:27:40,240 In this case, the regulations state a noncompetitive procurement can be awarded if competition 346 00:27:40,240 --> 00:27:41,240 is deemed inadequate. 347 00:27:41,240 --> 00:27:48,100 Here are some questions agencies should ask themselves if only one bid or proposal was received. 348 00:27:48,160 --> 00:27:52,870 - Was the advertisement placed in an appropriate publication? 349 00:27:52,870 --> 00:27:56,669 - Are there an adequate number of available vendors in the area? 350 00:27:56,669 --> 00:27:59,880 - Are several vendors able to meet the specifications? 351 00:27:59,880 --> 00:28:02,200 If not, are the specifications too restrictive? 352 00:28:02,200 --> 00:28:05,840 - And were vendors given enough time to submit a bid? 353 00:28:05,840 --> 00:28:10,960 If it is determined that the solicitation was too narrow, or not enough time was given 354 00:28:10,960 --> 00:28:14,120 for the solicitation, the agency must publicly advertise the solicitation again. 355 00:28:14,120 --> 00:28:22,990 Let's say that an agency receives several responses to a solicitation for RFPs. 356 00:28:22,990 --> 00:28:25,110 Let's discuss scoring the proposals. 357 00:28:25,110 --> 00:28:30,10 While not required, it's a good idea for the scoring of the submitted proposals to be done 358 00:28:30,10 --> 00:28:36,530 by several people independently to avoid the perception of bias towards one vendor. 359 00:28:36,530 --> 00:28:41,190 First, agencies should review any minimum requirements to ensure the vendors are considered 360 00:28:41,190 --> 00:28:43,660 responsive and responsible. 361 00:28:43,660 --> 00:28:48,360 Total the points for the technical criteria, then rank proposals. 362 00:28:48,360 --> 00:28:55,900 At this point, agencies should know which proposals score highest based on everything but cost. 363 00:28:55,970 --> 00:29:00,920 This is when negotiation can begin. 364 00:29:00,920 --> 00:29:04,360 After the deadline has passed, agencies may negotiate prices and services or the technical 365 00:29:04,360 --> 00:29:07,950 criteria with the top scoring vendors. 366 00:29:07,950 --> 00:29:13,669 Agencies are not required to conduct negotiations but it is in their best interest. 367 00:29:13,669 --> 00:29:17,900 Remember during the negotiation process, confidentiality must be maintained. 368 00:29:17,900 --> 00:29:23,669 You may not discuss either the technical aspects or price with vendors competing for your business. 369 00:29:23,669 --> 00:29:29,800 Agencies must be careful to avoid biased or preferential treatment during the negotiation period. 370 00:29:29,70 --> 00:29:35,929 The top scoring vendors must be treated equitably throughout the negotiation process. 371 00:29:35,929 --> 00:29:40,960 When you say agencies may conduct negotiations with the bidders that submitted the top ranked 372 00:29:40,960 --> 00:29:43,0 technical proposals, what do you mean? 373 00:29:43,0 --> 00:29:47,270 The reviewers should total the scores for all criteria except for cost. 374 00:29:47,270 --> 00:29:52,0 Then they can choose to negotiate with the vendors that scored the highest for everything but cost. 375 00:29:53,820 --> 00:29:57,830 The agency can ask the vendor whether they can change their proposal to better meet the 376 00:29:57,830 --> 00:29:58,350 agency's need. 377 00:29:58,350 --> 00:30:04,570 For example, let's say a vendor put in their proposal that they need 48 hours advance notice 378 00:30:04,570 --> 00:30:08,900 for a change in number of meals delivered but it would better meet the agency's need 379 00:30:08,900 --> 00:30:11,610 to give only 24 hours advance notice. 380 00:30:11,610 --> 00:30:14,230 An agency could ask the vendor whether they would be willing to change their deadline 381 00:30:14,230 --> 00:30:22,700 for changes to the number of meals delivered from 48 hours advance notice to 24 hours advance notice. 382 00:30:22,770 --> 00:30:27,100 Keep in mind, the agency must give all the top scoring bidders the same opportunity to negotiate. 383 00:30:28,40 --> 00:30:35,0 At the end of the negotiation, ensure the technical proposals will fully meet the agency's needs. 384 00:30:35,30 --> 00:30:41,30 Here is an example of how to determine which vendors to select for negotiation. 385 00:30:41,30 --> 00:30:49,0 In this scenario, three vendor's technical proposals were scored independently by three evaluators. 386 00:30:49,270 --> 00:30:54,450 Evaluator A gave Vendor A's technical proposal 63 points. 387 00:30:54,450 --> 00:31:02,80 Evaluator B gave Vendor A 58 points, and Evaluator C gave Vendor A's technical proposal 55 points. 388 00:31:02,80 --> 00:31:09,80 When adding the points of all evaluators together, Vendor A ended up with 176 points. 389 00:31:09,80 --> 00:31:16,700 Vendor B received 128 points and Vendor C received 184 points. 390 00:31:16,700 --> 00:31:21,549 Given Vendor A and Vendor C's scores were within ten points of each other, and Vendor 391 00:31:21,549 --> 00:31:26,470 B's points were dramatically lower, the agency could choose to negotiate only with Vendor 392 00:31:26,470 --> 00:31:31,930 A and C. Vendor B would no longer be in the running. 393 00:31:31,930 --> 00:31:36,179 Can you give an example of something that might be negotiated? 394 00:31:36,179 --> 00:31:40,340 Let's say for example that the agency was really pleased with vendor A's references 395 00:31:40,340 --> 00:31:45,110 and experience but their menus were scored a little low because they lacked a variety 396 00:31:45,110 --> 00:31:47,330 of fresh fruits and vegetables. 397 00:31:47,330 --> 00:31:52,260 The agency could contact Vendor A and ask them whether they could include more variety 398 00:31:52,260 --> 00:31:55,260 of fresh fruits and vegetables in their menus. 399 00:31:55,260 --> 00:32:00,290 For Vendor C, they also were pleased with their references and experience but their 400 00:32:00,290 --> 00:32:05,840 menu could have received a higher score if they included some hot menu items. 401 00:32:05,840 --> 00:32:11,990 The agency could contact Vendor A and C and negotiate menus that were more advantageous 402 00:32:11,990 --> 00:32:13,90 for the agency. 403 00:32:13,90 --> 00:32:19,700 After negotiation, each of the top scoring vendors would submit their best and final offer. 404 00:32:19,30 --> 00:32:26,550 Keep in mind, as you negotiate a higher quality menu, the cost per meal could increase. 405 00:32:26,550 --> 00:32:31,100 Whichever method you select, ensure that you are clear in your RFP, how you will identify 406 00:32:31,100 --> 00:32:38,230 the top scoring vendors for negotiation and that a best and final offer will be allowed. 407 00:32:38,230 --> 00:32:44,400 Once the agency is satisfied that the top scoring proposals would fully meet its technical 408 00:32:44,400 --> 00:32:49,290 needs, the agency would open the bidders' cost proposal, and permit the vendors to amend 409 00:32:49,290 --> 00:32:56,500 their cost proposals to reflect any changes resulting from the technical proposal negotiation phase. 410 00:32:56,500 --> 00:32:59,380 You can request that the cost proposal be submitted in a separate envelope from the 411 00:32:59,380 --> 00:33:02,210 technical proposal but it is not required. 412 00:33:02,210 --> 00:33:07,990 It is important to note that even though the technical criteria can be modified through 413 00:33:07,990 --> 00:33:13,720 negotiations with the vendor, it cannot materially change the nature of the RFP. 414 00:33:13,720 --> 00:33:17,370 For example, if a vendor tells you in their technical proposal that they will bring farm 415 00:33:17,370 --> 00:33:23,600 animals and local produce for a special farm to summer event, yet this was not requested 416 00:33:23,600 --> 00:33:29,100 in the solicitation, agencies cannot consider this service or score the proposal higher because of it. 417 00:33:29,130 --> 00:33:34,690 This would be considered a material change because the vendor's would have bid differently 418 00:33:34,690 --> 00:33:36,820 had they known this requirement. 419 00:33:36,820 --> 00:33:39,440 It is also not fair to the other vendors who may have included this service had they known 420 00:33:39,440 --> 00:33:41,90 it was part of the solicitation. 421 00:33:41,90 --> 00:33:46,960 Remember, to ensure open and fair competition. 422 00:33:46,960 --> 00:33:52,900 When negotiating costs, some of the bidders may wish to modify their technical proposals again. 423 00:33:52,950 --> 00:33:57,140 This is acceptable, if the RFP made clear to all bidders that this is permitted. 424 00:33:57,140 --> 00:34:01,39 The agency would need to re-rank the technical proposals. 425 00:34:01,39 --> 00:34:06,809 After all negotiations and modifications have been completed, each remaining bidder will 426 00:34:06,809 --> 00:34:11,990 submit a best and final offer. 427 00:34:11,990 --> 00:34:17,39 The agency needs to review the technical proposals within each "best and final offer" first, 428 00:34:17,39 --> 00:34:20,489 to ensure that each of them still fully meets the agency's needs. 429 00:34:20,489 --> 00:34:27,979 Remember, it is critical that the specifications and criteria contained in the RFP are well-thought-out 430 00:34:27,979 --> 00:34:29,879 and well-written. 431 00:34:29,879 --> 00:34:32,409 Agencies should award contracts on the basis of the best overall value. 432 00:34:32,409 --> 00:34:38,919 As mentioned in the previous slide, decisions cannot be based on additional services or 433 00:34:38,919 --> 00:34:42,219 products vendors are willing to provide but were not part of the solicitation. 434 00:34:42,219 --> 00:34:47,200 We have covered a lot of information. Let's recap: 435 00:34:47,219 --> 00:34:49,839 Laurie, who gets awarded the contract? 436 00:34:49,839 --> 00:34:56,879 In an IFB, the responsible and responsive vendor with the lowest price wins the award. 437 00:34:56,879 --> 00:35:02,119 In an RFP, the responsible and responsive vendor with the highest score wins the award. 438 00:35:02,119 --> 00:35:08,69 Remember, in an RFP, even though criteria other than price is considered, price must 439 00:35:08,69 --> 00:35:11,140 be the highest weighted factor. 440 00:35:11,140 --> 00:35:18,180 Once a contract is signed and in place, it's easy to feel relieved that the workload involved 441 00:35:18,180 --> 00:35:20,299 in finding a vendor is over. 442 00:35:20,299 --> 00:35:25,670 However, agencies should remember the workload of monitoring contracts has just begun and 443 00:35:25,670 --> 00:35:26,309 is vitally important. 444 00:35:26,309 --> 00:35:31,640 Courtney, what should an agency do if the vendor is not complying with terms and conditions 445 00:35:31,640 --> 00:35:32,640 of the contract? 446 00:35:32,640 --> 00:35:36,329 Let's say they are repeatedly late with deliveries, and send meals that are not compliant with 447 00:35:36,329 --> 00:35:38,599 the meal pattern. 448 00:35:38,599 --> 00:35:43,540 First, language in the contract should stipulate that they will not pay for meals that do not 449 00:35:43,540 --> 00:35:47,559 meet the meal pattern or if they arrive late with their deliveries. 450 00:35:47,559 --> 00:35:51,170 Additional penalties or restrictions for failures to adequately perform as contracted should 451 00:35:51,170 --> 00:35:54,630 be included at the agency's discretion. 452 00:35:54,630 --> 00:35:58,559 The contract language should clearly state that contracts with vendors who are unable 453 00:35:58,559 --> 00:36:00,160 to perform successfully may be terminated. 454 00:36:00,160 --> 00:36:05,380 Agencies must maintain written documentation to show how the terms and conditions of the 455 00:36:05,380 --> 00:36:13,979 contract were not met and all communication should be in writing. 456 00:36:13,979 --> 00:36:18,79 We have finished covering the formal purchase methods which involve competitive procurement. 457 00:36:18,79 --> 00:36:23,420 The regulations do allow procurement by noncompetitive proposals under four circumstances. 458 00:36:23,420 --> 00:36:28,979 At least one of the following four scenarios must be met: 459 00:36:28,979 --> 00:36:33,819 The first scenario is after solicitation, competition is inadequate. 460 00:36:33,819 --> 00:36:39,29 As we mentioned earlier, it's possible that an agency has followed all the required procurement 461 00:36:39,29 --> 00:36:44,79 procedures and only one vendor is responsive and responsible. 462 00:36:44,79 --> 00:36:49,700 The second scenario is when the item is only available from one source. 463 00:36:49,700 --> 00:36:54,329 The third scenario is when a urgent public need or public emergency, such as an earthquake, 464 00:36:54,329 --> 00:36:59,819 will not permit a delay to go through the proper procurement process 465 00:36:59,819 --> 00:37:06,100 The fourth scenario is when an agency has submitted a request to the CDE and has received approval. 466 00:37:06,130 --> 00:37:11,510 Program operators are strongly encouraged to contact their program specialist if they 467 00:37:11,510 --> 00:37:15,529 have a noncompetitive or sole source situation. 468 00:37:15,529 --> 00:37:19,420 Failure to adequately follow procurement guidelines and requirements related to sole source or 469 00:37:19,420 --> 00:37:24,989 noncompetitive procurement may result in financial findings against an agency. 470 00:37:24,989 --> 00:37:32,369 This concludes the Formal Purchase Methods for Community Nutrition Programs Webinar. 471 00:37:32,369 --> 00:37:38,779 Please note that the NSD has posted two additional procurement Webinars for Community Nutrition 472 00:37:38,779 --> 00:37:40,640 Programs on YouTube. 473 00:37:40,640 --> 00:37:44,359 The Informal Purchase Methods Webinar covers the requirements for purchases under the small 474 00:37:44,359 --> 00:37:46,900 purchase threshold. 475 00:37:46,900 --> 00:37:51,650 The Code of Conduct and Procurement Standards Webinar describes how agencies can develop 476 00:37:51,650 --> 00:37:55,690 a code of conduct and reviews the federal procurement standards. 477 00:37:55,690 --> 00:38:00,780 For additional procurement information, visit the CDE Procurement in Child Nutrition Program's Web page. 478 00:38:02,710 --> 00:38:11,520 If you have questions after reviewing the NSD Procurement Web page, please contact your 479 00:38:11,520 --> 00:38:12,520 program specialist. 480 00:38:12,520 --> 00:38:18,460 To find your CACFP specialist, type in the URL listed on this slide, or contact the NSD 481 00:38:18,460 --> 00:38:23,969 or SFSP at the listed phone numbers and e-mail address. 482 00:38:23,969 --> 00:38:29,600 Your specialist is here to assist you with ensuring you are meeting the federal procurement standards. 483 00:38:30,839 --> 00:38:34,359 You can print up a certificate of completion for this Webinar by accessing the link on 484 00:38:34,359 --> 00:38:36,789 your slide. 485 00:38:36,789 --> 00:38:41,0 Keep this certificate on file as you may be asked to show it during an administrative review. 486 00:38:41,9 --> 00:38:43,509 Thank you for listening in today! 487 00:38:43,509 --> 00:38:46,900 This institution is an equal opportunity provider.